It was a powerful, moving scenario that was offered halfway up the Olympiaberg on the last evening of the European Championships. So many happy people. Colorful lights everywhere. And then the background noise, with which you no longer knew where to orientate yourself. In the middle of this intoxicating chaos that evening, as on the previous days and evenings, there was an island that the event hustle and bustle seemed unable to reach. Of course there was more going on in and around the Olympia-Alm than usual. But otherwise? The waitresses in the “highest beer garden” in the city were relaxed, the atmosphere was no less. And miraculously, the Ayinger beer that was served there never ran out.
Because many people got to know the product of the small brewery from the district of Munich in a relaxed way. It flowed freely. In between, the landlord placed a barrel directly on the path where thousands marched past. Those who were clever got their drinks there quickly, while long queues formed at the stands specially set up for the sports festival. After a few friendly words, the waiter handed you the freshly tapped beer across the table – without the deposit stamp that is obligatory elsewhere, but with a friendly request that you bring the mug back. This was surprising in view of the crowds of visitors in the park – which is why they preferred it all the more. On the last evening there was also a place at a table where you could enjoy beer and snacks between obvious regular guests and many event visitors.
The Olympia-Alm is an original. Like the park, it has existed for 50 years. It was a refreshment station for workers when the sports facilities were built and then became what it is today. Time seems to have stood still. On the final evening of the championships, the employees at the grill used a microphone to call out when the “chicken nuggets” were ready or when the bratwurst could be picked up. It was like always. And it will continue to be so when the event visitors have gone and the park belongs to those who live in the neighborhood or take a trip there from the surrounding area. You don’t have to come back the next day just because the landlord promises at the bar window with a wink: “There’ll be free beer tomorrow.”